| COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT |
HECTOR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TERMINAL EXPANSION The sky is the limit
F
or Hector International Airport, the sky is truly the limit! Over the past year, air travel from Fargo has experienced a remarkable surge, and the airport is on a mission to not only accommodate this growing demand but also provide travelers with an enhanced travel experience. With a series of exciting developments on the horizon, Hector International Airport is flying to new heights. SOARING PASSENGER NUMBERS
It’s no secret that air travel from Fargo has been on the rise for the last several years. In 2019, Hector recorded their busiest year on record with 471,333 passengers boarding a plane. Their second busiest year on record came after the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2022 with 455,512 passengers boarding a plane. The growth at Hector is nothing short of remarkable. From 2009 to 2019, passenger numbers increased by a staggering 35%, demonstrating the airport’s pivotal role in serving the Fargo-Moorhead community. Even amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic, the airport has shown resilience by bouncing back from the slowdown caused by COVID-19.
project. In January 2022, Hector initiated a Terminal Area Study to define a functional and financially feasible concept that expands the existing terminal to keep up with the growing passenger demand as outlined in Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) forecasts. This study resulted in a plan to add four new gates, which will accommodate more departures and arrivals, as well as a wider range of airlines. The expansion comes as great news for both locals and visitors, promising even more convenience and travel options.
With this momentum, the airport is poised to continue its upward trajectory. And so far in 2023, it has. Eight out of the last nine months have set passenger boarding records.
The expansion includes adding an impressive 75,000 square feet to the existing terminal. The layout is thoughtfully designed to maximize functionality while providing an inviting and modern aesthetic. Construction is slated to commence in May 2024.
TERMINAL EXPANSION PROJECT
THE INTERIOR’S GRANDEUR
This surge in demand further validates the decision to move forward with the terminal expansion
The exterior design has been completed and attention is now on the interior of the terminal. Hector
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THE BRIDGE
November - December 2023
International Airport is working closely with local partners to create captivating spaces within the terminal, including artwork and sensory relaxation zones. Every detail, from design to construction, is being meticulously scrutinized. This thorough process also involves evaluating material lead times and exploring early procurement to ensure that the timeline remains on track. The expansion project will bring a host of improvements to the passenger experience at Hector. In addition to the new gates, more space will be available in the ticketing area, enabling smoother checkins. The design also includes room for self-serve kiosks, a convenience that modern travelers will surely appreciate. The expanded terminal is not just about aesthetics; it’s designed to enhance functionality. Plans include more family restrooms, a children’s room, a service animal relief area and a sensory room – a place of quiet and comfort, ideal for young and old alike who live with sensory issues, all with the goal of making travel more comfortable for all.